Why does the USA use 110V and UK use 230-240V?

Re:Why does the USA use 110V and UK use 230-240V? by TheSpiceIsLife on Tuesday August 29, 2023 @11:58AM (#37309821)

I use a Panasonic flatbed microwave to heat precisely the volume of water I want by filling the tea cup(s) I want.

Two minutes on high (1100 watt microwave output from, IIRC 1800 watt input) per cup. So usually two minutes for the one cup of I intend to drink.

Every electric kettle I’ve ever owned has a minimum volume of at least two cups. Who bother heating two cups if I’m only going to drink one at a time.

Tasmania (AU), 240v / 100amp supply to residential is standard.

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Re:Why does the USA use 110V and UK use 230-240V? by londons_explore on Tuesday August 29, 2023 @12:03PM (#37309897)

Any kettle with a flat bottom (no exposed heating element) can be used with far less water than the 'min' line - and some models don't have a min line at all.

All new kettles have boil-dry protection as well, so they won't be damaged with no water at all.

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Re:Why does the USA use 110V and UK use 230-240V? by TheSpiceIsLife on Tuesday August 29, 2023 @10:38PM (#37317005)

Might be time to upgrade the kettle. I really want one with temperature setting and insulation.

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